House Bill (HB) 1013 provides that in certain circumstances an animal's veterinary medical records must be released within five business days. These circumstances include but are not limited to part of a request from a regulatory or health authority, physician or veterinarian to verify a rabies vaccination of an animal or investigate a threat to human or animal health.

“This issue was brought to the General Assembly by a constituent whose dog died after contracting a disorder through a bite from another dog,” said Rep. Bacon. “If the constituent had been made aware of the other dog’s medical records, then her dog could have received proper treatment and would possibly still be alive today.”

Under current law, there is not an established time frame in which veterinarian medical service providers must furnish this information.

“In addition to protecting Hoosier pets, this bill is also beneficial to human health as well,” said Rep. Bacon. “By increasing access to veterinary records, it will be easier to confirm and quarantine a pet that has potentially contracted rabies or other aggression triggering ailments, thus lessening the threat to humans.”

HB 1013 will now be sent to the governor’s desk to be signed into law.

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